Safety and efficacy of microwave ablation for benign thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid microcarcinomas: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose: To summarize the published literature on microwave ablation (MWA) for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid microcarcinomas, and to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of MWA as a novel treatment strategy. Methods: Two independent authors carried out the literature search using four databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science. The meta-analysis included prospective and retrospective data that compared pre-treatment values to post-treatment outcomes. Results: From the 33 original articles, seven studies met the inclusion criteria for this meta-analysis. Of these, five were retrospective studies, two were prospective trials, one was controlled study, and one was a multi-center study. The results showed significant improvements in nodule volume, clinical symptom scores, and beauty scores between the baseline and final follow-up visits. In all of the studies, the most common adverse effects were hematomas, unbearable pain, and transient or permanent voice change in 3.8%, 2.2%, and 4.6% of patients, respectively. None of these incidents resulted in hospitalization or death. Conclusions: MWA is effective and safe for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules and papillary thyroid microcarcinomas. However, future studies should compare the efficacy of MWA, RFA, and surgical intervention.